“Is it just me, or is it getting crazier out there?”
This quote reflects the chaos and unpredictability of the world, highlighting how society can often feel overwhelming and out of control.
“The worst part of having a mental illness is people expect you to behave as if you don’t.”
Arthur’s words here speak to the stigma surrounding mental health, emphasizing the internal struggle of maintaining appearances while battling inner demons.
“I used to think that my life was a tragedy, but now I realize, it’s a comedy.”
This transformation in Arthur’s perspective signifies a critical point in the film, showcasing his embrace of chaos and the subjective nature of life’s narrative.
“All I have are negative thoughts.”
A profound insight into ArthurÕs mental state, this line underscores the overpowering nature of negative thinking and its impact on one’s worldview.
“For my whole life, I didn’t know if I even really existed. But I do, and people are starting to notice.”
This quote illustrates Arthur’s desperate need for recognition and validation, a common human desire to be seen and acknowledged.
“I hope my death makes more cents than my life.”
Arthur’s cynical play on words reveals his disillusionment with his own existence and the societal neglect he feels.
“When you bring me out, can you introduce me as Joker?”
Signifying Arthur’s full transformation into his new identity, this request highlights his acceptance of his persona and rejection of his past self.
“You don’t listen, do you? You just ask the same questions every week.”
Arthur’s frustration with his therapist mirrors the broader societal failure to truly understand and address individual struggles.
“What do you get when you cross a mentally ill loner with a society that abandons him?”
This line criticizes societal neglect and the consequences of ignoring those in need, pointing to systemic failures in social care.
“You get what you f***ing deserve!”
A powerful declaration of retribution, embodying Arthur’s rage against the injustices he has faced and his perceived moral justification.
“Everybody is awful these days. It’s enough to make anyone crazy.”
This observation reflects Arthur’s perception of societal decay, suggesting that the harshness of the world can drive individuals to madness.
“I just don’t want to feel so bad anymore.”
A simple, yet profound expression of Arthur’s pain, highlighting the universal desire for relief from suffering and emotional turmoil.
“Isn’t it beautiful?”
Arthur’s appreciation for chaos underscores his distorted view of beauty, suggesting that perspective can alter the perception of reality.
“Comedy is subjective.”
This statement underscores the theme of personal interpretation and how humor, like many aspects of life, is perceived differently by everyone.
“I have nothing left to lose. Nothing can hurt me anymore.”
Arthur’s resignation to his fate reflects a point of emotional numbness where fear and pain no longer hold power over him.
“Smile, though your heart is aching.”
This line captures the thematic juxtaposition of outward appearances versus internal suffering, emphasizing the mask people wear.
“You think men like Thomas Wayne ever think what it’s like to be someone like me?”
A critique of societal inequality, this quote questions the empathy and understanding of the privileged toward those less fortunate.
“I killed those guys because they were awful.”
This admission reflects Arthur’s distorted sense of justice, where he believes his actions are justified by the perceived immorality of others.
“I know it seems strange. I don’t mean to make you uncomfortable.”
Arthur’s awareness of his social awkwardness highlights the struggle to fit into societal norms and the alienation it can cause.
“It’s been a rough few weeks, Murray.”
This understatement by Arthur before his climactic appearance on the talk show hints at the internal chaos and transformation he has undergone.
Interesting Facts about Joker (2019)
Joaquin Phoenix’s Weight Loss
Joaquin Phoenix lost about 52 pounds for his role as Arthur Fleck, which he found to be one of the most challenging aspects of preparing for the character.
Limited Script
Director Todd Phillips and Joaquin Phoenix collaborated closely on the film, with Phoenix often improvising scenes. The script was reportedly quite short, allowing for a more organic development of the story and character.
Inspiration from Silent Films
Joaquin Phoenix studied silent film actors like Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin to develop the Joker’s physicality and movements, particularly for the iconic dance scenes.
Character Study
To prepare for the role, Phoenix read up on political assassins and studied personality disorders to better understand the psychological aspects of Arthur Fleck’s character.
De Niro’s Tribute
Robert De Niro’s role as Murray Franklin is a nod to his character in “The King of Comedy” (1982), where he played a struggling comedian. This connection highlights the film’s thematic exploration of fame and mental health.
Inspired by Real-world Events
The film drew inspiration from real-world events, including the 1984 New York City subway shooting, which influenced its portrayal of societal decay and urban unrest.
Gotham’s Look
The depiction of Gotham City in “Joker” was heavily influenced by 1970s and 1980s New York City, capturing the era’s gritty and decaying urban environment.
Original Score
Icelandic composer Hildur Gu_nadttir created the film’s haunting score, which was composed before filming began, allowing it to influence the mood and tone of the performances.
Unscripted Fridge Scene
The scene where Arthur climbs into a refrigerator was not in the original script. Joaquin Phoenix improvised it during filming, adding to the character’s unpredictable nature.
Box Office Record
“Joker” became the first R-rated film to gross over $1 billion worldwide, setting a new benchmark for adult-oriented comic book movies.